Xolo Maridueña: The Face of a New Generation in Cobra Kai’s Karate Comeback
In a world where representation matters more than ever, Xolo Maridueña stands at the forefront of a cinematic revolution. The star of “Cobra Kai” and the iconic “Blue Beetle”, Xolo embodies the spirit of a new generation of Latinx talent carving out their space in Hollywood.
With a career that champions diversity and authenticity, he’s not just bringing characters to life; he’s redefining what it means to be a hero on screen. In this exclusive interview, we dive into his journey, exploring the impact of his roles and the importance of representation in an industry that’s ripe for change. Join us as Xolo shares his insights on navigating Hollywood as a Latinx actor and his vision for a more inclusive future in entertainment.
FEATURE INTERVIEW:
What did it mean to you to play Víctor Graham in Parenthood? How was the transition to such an iconic role as Miguel Díaz in Cobra Kai?
At that time, it meant getting to have a lot of fun exploring the sandbox that is acting with professionals, being 11 years old, it’s hard to take anything too seriously but it helped to explore someone who wasn’t myself. Transitioning into Miguel felt like a glove, I had gotten to shake off all the jitters of being on a set and really come into my own, I was 16, the character was 16 and everyone involved helped me feel like I could take control of this character.
What attracted you to the character of Jaime Reyes and how did you prepare for this new challenge? What do you hope the audience will take away from this film?
I feel I’ve been preparing my whole life to get to play a character like Jaime. Superhero movies, for better or worse, are some of the most inspiring tales for youth these days. To show folk they could have a superhero that looked like them was a dream come true. I’m not sure I will ever get over the feeling of portraying this character, but I will always thank the Director ÁMS for challenging the status quo of this genre. I hope with more movies like Blue Beetle; people will begin to see that “Latino” isn’t the genre!
What aspects of Miguel Díaz do you identify with the most? What were the most challenging to portray? How has your relationship with this character evolved over the seasons?
I have always identified with Miguel’s optimism, there was something so healthy for me to get to portray such an underdog type of character. The fighting aspect is easily the hardest part of the show, especially since there’s usually a minimum of 3 other excited 20-year-olds to try and not take out.
Do you feel any pressure to continue the legacy of Karate Kid and Cobra Kai? How do you think this series has resonated with the audience?
No pressure to continue the legacy, there are a million little things about the show that I think people resonate with, but I think it will always come down to the love the world has for Daniel Larusso and Johnny Lawrence. I know by having fun and giving my all each day at work, I’m honoring the legacy of this franchise, outside of that there’s not much else I can do.
How have your Cuban, Ecuadorian, and Mexican roots influenced your life and career? What does it mean to you to be Latino in Hollywood?
I can’t help but feel like it has influenced every corner of my life, from the way I speak, to the friends I chose, to the type of food I’m accustomed to, my Latino dad wasn’t really something I ever felt insecure about until getting into this field. Seeing how the industry limits the types of stories I’m allowed to tell has always made me particular about the roles I take on, being a Latino in Hollywood is a responsibility, simply put.
In portraying Jaime Reyes in “Blue Beetle,” how did you approach infusing the character with authentic Latinx experiences? Were there any specific cultural elements you wanted to ensure were represented?
The director and writer really helped find an authentic voice for this movie. The beating heart of the film is surely the family, before getting to principal photography I was told by the director that, “the love I had for my family was the love the character had” That was enough for me! Simply allowing real Latinos in front of and behind the camera is authentic enough.
Hollywood has been criticized for its lack of diversity. From your perspective, how has the industry evolved since you started, and what changes do you think are still necessary for true inclusivity?
I’m happy to see so many new stories being told, I feel once the industry understands that the stories of minorities can be general market we can start to make even bigger changes. So many folks haven’t been included in the statistics that Hollywood loves to live by.
As someone who’s gaining more visibility, how do you approach fashion as a form of personal expression and cultural identity? Do you have any Latinx designers or Icons that you particularly admire for fashion?
I’m currently hopping on the Willy Chavarria bandwagon. He has combined everything I love about the stuff I grew up on with high fashion and I couldn’t love it more. My fashion sense is all over the place, but it is definitely a reflection of who I am.
Growing up, did you have any Latinx role models in the entertainment industry? How did they influence your career, and how do you hope to inspire the next generation?
Funny enough getting to see Selena Gomez at a taping of Wizards helped show me that we really were in the places I wanted to be. Aside from her, all my family at CASA 0101, my local theater company, was the biggest example to me at the time of Latinos making stories for us, by us. It’s what I started out with and the reason I fell in love with the art.
Outside of acting, how do you engage with the Latinx community? Are there any initiatives or organizations you work with to support Latinx voices and stories?
The Boyle Heights Arts Conservatory and Casa 0101 are two orgs from where I grew up, I love getting to collaborate with, they are talking the talk and walking the walk.
Looking ahead, what is your vision for Latinx representation in Hollywood over the next decade? How do you hope to contribute to that evolution?
The numbers show Latinos are the #1 audience for movie going, if in the next 10 years we can get even close to #1 represented in movies I will be happy 😉
TEAM CREDITS:
Interview By Editor-in-Chief: Prince Chenoa
Feature Editor: Taylor Winter Wilson (@taylorwinter)
Cover Art Design: Carlos Graciano (@sadpapi666)
Photographer: Tyler Patrick Kenny (@tylerpatrickkenny)
Wardrobe Stylist: Ugo Mozie (@ugomozie)
Assistant Wardrobe Stylist: Siena Suder (@sienasuder)
Grooming: Ryann Carter (@ryann.carter)
Studio Host: Jared Ryderr (@jaredryder) at Colors Studio
